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I cannot say Newcastle United is an average team because they are very informed and has been playing well in the premier League you can't mention five good and informed teams in premier League without mentioning Newcastle United they have been informed for a very long time now, and not lifting the premier League title does not make them uninformed or an average team, Arsenal has not lifted the premier league title for some time now but you can't call them an average team.
If Liverpool do not put in their best they will lose the match because Newcastle United is an informed team and this season they will do there best, I believe they will do very well so Liverpool needs to take this match very serious because if they don't they will lose the match to Newcastle United, however there is a big possibility that Liverpool will win this match but let's see how it goes today.
You're right, Newcastle can't be called an average team. They've been consistent in the Premier League for quite a while now, but this doesn't guarantee this season Newcastle will be at the high level like last season. Their stats against Liverpool might makes you feel bad as they are are on 7th Premier League games without a win against Liverpool. But, I'll be happy if this match against Liverpool will be tough because Newcastle have the strength and form to punish them. At the same time, Liverpool still have enough quality to edge it if they stay focused. I'll be pick Liverpool anyway.